For the money the big game rod is a good deal, I do like the ugly stik a little better, but they are a little more money. I've never had that exact reel, but I've had good Shakespears and not so good ones. But most importantly, go fishin, have fun and let us know how they work for you.

Thats a pretty good rod bought one for my nephew about a month and a half ago. Wish I would got one for myself. For $20 bucks its better than some of my other rods. The action is almost just right cant beat it. Havent had it for long so cant comment on durability and such.

I have a couple of the Berkley Big Game 7'6" casting rods, and they are great. They cast very well win Abu's on them and they seem to handle fish fine. I like the flex in the rods as I use circle hooks most of the time. Should be a good rod for ya especially for the price.

I bought a used big game 7' med action rod with a wcc555 south bend spinning reel about 2 years ago i've never touched it besides new line every spring. I spool it with braided line and its good for the year (for me thats about 100 trips). I'm pretty hard on my rods and I can say that its tough. The only other rods that seem to hold up to my standards are Ugly Sticks. Keep in mind though I'm too cheap to spend more than about 40 bucks for a fishing pole. good luck, Chris